Questions to ask your wedding venue

When choosing the perfect wedding location it is important to be well informed. There are numerous factors to consider, from capacity and catering options to accessibility and décor. To help you make an informed choice, we have compiled a list of 18 key questions to ask a wedding location. Asking these questions will help you find the right venue for your dream wedding.

Important Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

1. How much space does the venue offer?

• Capacity: What is the maximum number of guests the venue can accommodate for both seated dinners and standing receptions?
• Room layout: Is there enough space for a dance floor, stage or other entertainment?

2. What is the parking situation at the site?

• Parking: Are there enough parking spaces for all guests?
• Valet Parking: Is valet parking available and what is the cost?

3. Are separate rooms available for the ceremony and reception?

• Transition: What is the transition between the ceremony and reception?
• Indoor and outdoor: Are both indoor and outdoor spaces available?

4. Is there a wedding coordinator or event manager available to help organise and coordinate the wedding?

• Experience: What is their experience and what services do they offer?
• Day itself: What is their role on the day of the wedding?

5. What are the catering options at the venue?

• Menu options: Which menu options are available?
• Dietary requirements: Can special dietary requirements or allergies be taken into account?

6. Is a sound and music system available for use during the ceremony and reception?

• Equipment: What audiovisual equipment is available?
• Technical support: Is technical support available during the event?

7. Are bedrooms available for the bride and groom and any other guests wishing to stay overnight?

• Accommodation: How many rooms are available?
• Costs: What are the rates and are there group discounts?

8. What are the options for on-site photography?

• Photo locations: Are there any specific places that are popular for wedding photos?
• Limitations: Are there restrictions on photography in certain places?

9. What are the options for additional decorations or flowers add to the space?

• Own decorations: Can we bring our own decorations?
• Prescriptions: Are there any restrictions or safety regulations?

10. What is the total cost of the venue and what is included in this price?

• Services included: Are catering, music, decorations, etc. included?
• Additional costs: Are there any hidden costs or additional surcharges?

11. Is the venue available on the date of our wedding?

• Availability: If not, what alternative dates are possible?
• Take option: Is it possible to take an option on the date?

12. What are the payment terms for the venue?

• Down payment: Is a deposit required?
• Payment terms: When should payments be made?

13. What is your cancellation policy?

• Cancellation policy: What are the cancellation conditions?
• Reimbursement: Is there any possibility of a refund?

14. Is there a back-up plan for bad weather if the venue is outdoors?

• Alternative spaces: Are indoor spaces available in bad weather?
• Costs: Are there additional costs associated with the backup plan?

15. Are there any restrictions on the type of music or entertainment we can have?

• Noise level: Are there noise restrictions or a mandatory end time?
• Licences: Are special permits required for certain entertainment?

16. May we choose our own suppliers (e.g. photographer, DJ, florist), or do you work exclusively with certain suppliers?

• Preferred suppliers: Do you have a list of preferred suppliers?
• Proprietary suppliers: Is there a cost for bringing your own suppliers?

17. Is there a kitchen available for catering?

• Facilities: How are the kitchen facilities?
• Own caterer: Can we use our own caterer?

18. How involved is the venue staff on the day of the wedding?

• Support: Do they offer help with set-up and take-down?
• Contact person: Is there a permanent contact person during the event?

It is also recommended to sample photos to ask from previous weddings held at the venue. This will give you a good idea of what the space will look like on the day of your wedding. Also, visit the venue at the same time as your wedding is scheduled to experience the ambience and lighting.

Choosing the right wedding location is one of the most important steps in plans of your wedding. Through these important questions set, make sure you are well prepared and leave nothing to chance. Take the time to make several locations visit and trust your gut in making the final choice.